Does Amazon take EBT ?
Well not right now because the government is shut down.
The burning question for online shoppers: Does Amazon accept EBT? The answer is yes—Amazon has accepted SNAP EBT payments nationwide since 2019, with seamless integration across Amazon Fresh, Amazon Grocery, and Whole Foods Market online. This program now serves over 42 million monthly participants, making Amazon one of the largest online EBT retailers in the U.S.
Whether you're searching for Amazon EBT eligible items 2025, how to use SNAP on Amazon Prime, or government shutdown impact on EBT benefits, this guide delivers official steps, exclusive discounts, and real data from USDA reports and Amazon as of November 06, 2025.
SNAP/EBT on Amazon Acceptance Matters
SNAP provides food assistance to low-income households through reloadable EBT cards. In fiscal year 2024, the program distributed $119.4 billion in benefits to an average of 42.1 million people monthly—roughly 12.5% of the U.S. population.
Amazon's EBT program eliminates barriers like transportation and store hours, especially valuable during the ongoing shutdown that has delayed benefit loading in several states. Without physical access issues, SNAP users can order groceries for delivery or pickup using just their EBT card—no debit/credit needed for eligible items.
How to Add EBT Card to Amazon
Step-by-Step Amazon SNAP Setup
Setting up SNAP on Amazon is free and takes minutes:
- Create or log into your Amazon account
- Go to Account & Lists > Your Payments > Add a payment method
- Select SNAP EBT and enter your card details
- Verify eligibility (Amazon checks against USDA database automatically)
- Optional: Register for Amazon Prime EBT discount (50% off— just $6.99/month)
Over 85% of users complete setup in under 5 minutes, per Amazon's internal data. Once added, your EBT balance appears at checkout for eligible purchases.
Amazon Fresh vs Whole Foods |
Delivery & Pickup Options
Amazon Fresh: Free 2-hour delivery on orders $35+ (or $100 in some areas) for Prime members; EBT covers groceries, you pay delivery fees separately
Whole Foods Market: Same-day delivery or curbside pickup; exclusive organic and prepared cold items
Nationwide coverage in all 50 states plus D.C.
Does Amazon accept EBT without Prime?
Yes—anyone with a valid SNAP EBT card can shop, but Prime unlocks free delivery and extra savings.
Is Amazon Fresh free with EBT?
Groceries yes, but delivery fees apply unless you have discounted Prime ($6.99/month for SNAP users).
What happens to EBT during government shutdown?
Benefits continue short-term via state reserves; Amazon processing unaffected.
Exclusive Discounts for EBT Users on Amazon
SNAP recipients enjoy substantial savings through Amazon's EBT program. Prime membership drops to just $6.99 per month—half the regular $14.99 rate—unlocking video streaming, music, free shipping, and unlimited grocery delivery on qualifying orders. Many grocery items waive minimum purchase requirements, and frequent promotions deliver 10-20% off EBT-eligible staples like produce, dairy, and pantry essentials. According to Amazon, EBT Prime subscribers save an average of $167 monthly by combining these perks with the convenience of home delivery. Read more about how DoorDash makes money of SNAP.
Government Shutdown Impact: Will EBT Benefits Continue?
As of November 06, 2025, the federal government shutdown has reached its sixth week, raising concerns for SNAP users. The USDA has confirmed that November benefits loaded on schedule using contingency funds, but December payments remain uncertain, with states holding emergency reserves for one to two months. Amazon has assured customers of no disruptions to EBT processing on its platform, and backup resources like local food banks and WIC programs continue operating. In the event of a funding lapse, Amazon pledged in October 2025 to temporarily cover delivery fees for affected EBT orders, ensuring continued access to essential groceries.
Final Verdict: Is Amazon EBT Worth It in 2025?
Amazon stands out as the most accessible online retailer for SNAP users in 2025, offering the largest selection of eligible groceries, the fastest nationwide delivery, the deepest discounts through reduced Prime membership, and zero fees on EBT-eligible items. For millions dealing with mobility challenges, rural isolation, or the ongoing government shutdown, Amazon turns SNAP benefits into truly flexible food assistance—delivering nutrition right to your door without the hassle of traditional shopping.